The power of good manners

In recent years, it seems that good manners have come to be thought of as a “nice to have.” A frill. Even — and this is much worse — a sign of weakness. In fact, manners and the use of etiquette are powerful tools for mind control.

How so? For the simple reason that what you sow is what you reap. Therefore, if you are demanding, people will be withholding; if you are sarcastic, people will close down around you; if you are rude, people will often be rude right back; and if you are courteous and thoughtful, people will treat you similarly and might even be inspired to pay it forward.

In the workplace, the consistent use of good manners is a ridiculously easy way to stand out from the crowd and ensure that, no matter what your level, you are treated with respect. Observing these 12 basic rules will put you light-years ahead of most people.

Regardless of gender, the first person to reach a door should open it.

Regardless of gender, the person nearest the elevator door should get off first.

If you hear gossip, forget it, don’t spread it.

No matter how boring the meeting, behave graciously.

Don’t “cell yell,” or yell into any phone, or overuse the speaker function, or text your pals while co-workers are talking to you.

Basically, etiquette is the art of putting other people at ease. This may involve placing their comfort and well-being ahead of your own. Keep that little rule in mind and you won’t be tempted to wear a gallon of perfume/cologne, bring stinky food for lunch or clip your fingernails at your workstation.

It’s just common courtesy. And, even more important, how you treat people signals how you expect people to treat you. (That’s the mind-control part.)